Overview
The University of Nevada, Reno Extension is seeking a dynamic, collaborative, and innovative Extension Specialist in Natural Resources to provide statewide development, delivery, and evaluation of applied research and educational programs focused on Nevada’s natural resource needs. This full-time position is based out of the Humboldt County Extension Office in Winnemucca, Nevada, while supporting statewide Extension initiatives.
The successful candidate will address critical natural resource topics such as natural resource policy, rangeland restoration, vegetation, riparian, wildlife habitat management, and sustainable land stewardship. The position involves building partnerships with county offices, state and federal agencies, and local land managers to deliver impactful, research-based public educational programming.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Educational Programming
Design, deliver, and evaluate evidence-based educational programs on applied natural resource topics.
Utilize diverse teaching methods including workshops, demonstration sites, publications, webinars, and digital media.
Provide leadership for statewide Extension initiatives, program teams, and strategic planning efforts related to natural resources.
Develop collaborative relationships with county, state, tribal, and federal partners.
Research and Scholarly
Engage with interdisciplinary teams and external stakeholders to conduct applied research relevant to Nevada’s natural resource priorities.
Translate scientific research into practical tools and recommendations for diverse audiences.
Identify and pursue extramural funding opportunities to support natural resource education and research initiatives.
Manage grants, contracts, and reporting in compliance with University and sponsor guidelines.
Publish peer-reviewed articles, Extension bulletins, and other scholarly and educational materials.
Develop and provide impact reporting for Extension activities and stakeholder communications.
University and Community Service
Participate in University and Extension committees and working groups.
Contribute to UNR Extension’s mission of fostering thriving communities through engaged scholarship and education.
Lecturer Statement
The University of Nevada, Reno reserves the right to hire at any level of Lecturer (I-IV) or Teaching Assistant/Associate (terminal degree candidates) that is appropriate for the hire. If you have questions about the title, please inquire during the interview process.
Required Qualifications
Master’s or Ph.D. degree from an accredited institution in natural resources, environmental science, rangeland management, ecology, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering educational or outreach programs.
Knowledge of natural resource issues relevant to Nevada.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D. in a related field.
Experience working within Extension or similar outreach/education environments.
Knowledge of rangeland health in arid environments.
Demonstrated success in securing grants or contracts.
Experience working with diverse and underserved populations, including tribal communities.
Licensure
A valid Class “C” driver’s license or higher operator’s license within 30 days of employment.
Schedule and Travel
Work a flexible schedule, with periodic evening and weekend work.
Periodically travel throughout the state to assist with multi-county or statewide efforts related to subject matter expertise or attend area and statewide Extension meetings.
This position involves working in both office settings and field environments.
Travel within Nevada will be required
Compensation
Lecturer II / Teaching Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
To view the salary schedule for this position, please visit Salary Schedules and select Academic Faculty.
Our Benefits
Great Retirement!
Our retirement plan is beyond compare. The University generously matches your 19.25% contribution. With the faculty retirement plan, you are 100% vested on your first day. Sit back and watch your retirement dollars grow! All permanent employees on an annual “A” or “B” contract employed at least 50% full-time are eligible to participate in the NSHE retirement program unless they are members of PERS of Nevada.
“I had no idea the values of the faculty retirement plan when I joined UNR. I discovered I was fully vested in my contributions and the company’s 19.25% matching on my first day. I have watched my retirement grow over the years, not only in contributions but with investments. It is hard to describe how appreciative I am to feel so secure in my future” – Michelle B.
Perks of Working at UNR!
Health insurance options including dental and vision – Health Insurance
Generous annual and sick leave and life insurance – Faculty Benefits
E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center offers annual or semester memberships and spouse/domestic partner membership options. E.L. Wiegand Fitness Center
Reno is proud to be a University town! Many local businesses offer discounts to WolfCard holders
Mountain EAP supports employees (and eligible dependents) through difficult moments. Mountain EAP is located in Reno and specializes in counseling and advising services for personal or interpersonal issues.
Faculty Senate is the principal representing body for faculty. Its membership includes representatives from each academic and administrative major unit of the University. Faculty Senate
No state income tax!
Grants-in-aid for Faculty Employees
The University is proud to provide a reduced-rate tuition benefit to faculty and qualified dependents. Faculty can take up to six credits per semester at a reduced rate. Faculty dependents have unlimited credits, but to be eligible, children must be unmarried and under 24. They must receive at least 50% of their financial support from the employee and/or the employee’s spouse or domestic partner. Faculty Grants-in-Aid
Faculty Dual Career Assistance Program
The University of Nevada, Reno recognizes the importance of addressing dual-career couples’ professional needs. We offer a dual career assistance program to newly hired faculty spouses/partners that provides resources and assists them in identifying career opportunities in Northern Nevada. Dual Career Assistance Program
Department Information
https://extension.unr.edu/default.aspx
About University of Nevada, Reno
University of Nevada, Reno Extension is a major unit of the University and resides in the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources. Extension uses peer-reviewed research to find solutions to community-based issues and needs within six broad legislatively mandated areas: Agriculture; Children, Youth, and Families; Community Development; Health and Nutrition; Horticulture; and Natural Resources. The mission is to discover, develop, disseminate, preserve and use knowledge to strengthen the social, economic and environmental well-being of people and their communities. Extension has offices in 16 of Nevada’s 17 counties with programs that span large urban centers with over two million residents to isolated ranching and farming communities of several hundred or fewer inhabitants.
